Owls reserves too strong for young Blades

Last updated : 26 March 2008 By C. Morris

Sheffield Wednesday reserves produced a convincing display as they strolled to a 3-0 victory over their neighbours on Wednesday night.

The game was almost a complete role reversal to when the two teams met earlier in the season. On that occasion it was United who fielded an experienced line up with Wednesday featuring a team of youngsters due to injury problems in the 1st team and

United ran out convincing 4-0 winners.

This time around it was the Blades turn to field the youngsters as many of their squad had travelled to Hungary for a friendly game. In comparison the Owls 2nd string included a host of players with 1st team experience. Steve Watson completed his third successive 90 minutes for the reserves since his return from injury and Jermaine Johnson was given a run out as he is now available for 1st team selection following his 4-match ban. Etienne Esajas stepped up his return to fitness and Ronnie Wallwork, Peter Gilbert and Burton O'Brien also featured.

A foul on Johnson just after the 10 minute mark led to the 1st goal with O'Brien scoring direct from the resulting free-kick and midway through the half a header from Wallwork doubled the lead.

In the second half unselfish work from Johnson allowed Luke Boden to complete the victory.

The most positive aspect was the fact that all of the players came through the game unscathed and a number of these players should expect to be included in the 1st team squad for Saturday's home game against Coca-Cola Championship high-flyers Stoke City.